Inclusion of transgender people in the electoral rolls

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Voter registration plays a key role in the democratic system because it makes a person (voter) eligible to participate in electoral processes. Voters’ participation contributes in the successful running of the democracy. Keeping in view the importance of voter registration, the Elections Act 2017 also bounds the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to conduct public awareness programs and media campaigns regarding the importance of maximum voter enrolment and participation in elections. In this regard, ECP initiates voter registration campaign from time to time. ECP has also initiated its fourth campaign of voter registration.

INCLUSION OF MARGINALIZED IN THE ELECTORAL PROCESSES

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The political participation needs to be inclusive and representative of all segments of society for successful democratic processes. Voting is the basic element of democracy and is the fundamental right of every citizen. By using this right, the citizens can express their political will and play their role in democracy. The Constitution of Pakistan also gives this right to its citizens irrespective of sex, caste, creed, race, or any other basis. However, women and members of other socially excluded groups – persons with disability (PWD), women, and transgender people – are often unable to participate in democracy due to several social and institutional reasons. One of the major reasons for not participating in democratic processes is  lack of awareness on voter education and electoral processes. The best possible way to overcome such obstacles is advocacy for reforms in the electoral system.

ADVOCACY WITH PURPOSE

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Situated 12 kilometers from district Swat, in a narrow valley in the foothills of the Himalayas is Kwaro Shahgram village. The undulating landscape of the valley along with long distances make National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) Registration Centers (NRCs) inaccessible for the local women